Planting a tree is a simple way to green your property and do something good for the environment. Invest just a few hours of work and you’ll reap the benefits for decades, provided you choose the right species and location. Before you plant a tree, make sure it can grow without becoming a risk to power lines or any other nearby structures.
Choosing the right tree
In addition to their aesthetic value, trees can help meet landscaping needs by creating a “cool island,” acting as a visual or sound screen, improving air quality, capturing rainwater and more. You can also choose a tree or shrub for its fruit or all the ways it supports biodiversity. But before you decide on a species, it’s important to consider its size when it reaches maturity and the area available in terms of height, width and even space on the ground.
Choosing the right location
Trees grow faster than you think, and you can’t stop their branches halfway. A tree that’s planted too close to power lines will eventually come in contact with them, increasing the risk of outages, fires and injuries.
Did you know?
Vegetation is one of the main causes of outages, especially during weather events.
Before you plant a tree, look up! A species growing near or under power lines that puts the system at risk will have to be trimmed regularly by Hydro‑Québec, and that can change its structure and alter its natural appearance. To avoid these interventions, choose the right location for your tree before you plant it.
To make sure the tree doesn’t obstruct Hydro‑Québec’s distribution system, use the Choose the Right Tree or Shrub tool. It’ll help you determine the safe planting distance for the species you’re considering.
“Better planting location means better protection—for the tree that’s planted and for the investment in greening. It means better protecting the distribution system and the workers who may have to manage the tree and adopting a responsible approach for everyone.”
Nicolas Nadeau-Thibodeau
Forest Engineer, Soutien opérationnel – Végétation at Hydro‑Québec
Sharing the space: Pools and sheds
Consider everything in your yard. Your tree must be far enough away from the house, swimming pool or shed to avoid any risks associated with the roots and branches.
Did you know?
When left to grow freely, some species develop roots that extend two or three times the tree’s height.
To keep your tree intact and healthy, choose a location and species that will grow in harmony with its surroundings, including the underground infrastructure. Place an Info-Excavation locate request
to find out if there are any underground power lines or other types of systems like gas or water mains or telecommunication cables.
Planning for today and tomorrow
By choosing the right location for your tree, you’ll avoid long-term issues, provide the best growing conditions and ensure the safety of the power system. If you’re uncertain about the safe distances, please contact Hydro-Québec. We’re here to help!
